Multiple Drop-down Question Definition

Multiple drop-down questions are presented as text in drop-down menus for correct answers to be selected by the user. It is a type of multiple-choice question. The user may be able to select more than one choice, so it may also be a type of Multiple Answers question.

Characteristics of Multiple Drop-down Questions

Multiple Drop-down questions:

• can present problems involving reasoning and judgment
• can check memory for facts
• check recognition but not recall
• use objective rather than subjective scoring

Advantages of Multiple Drop-down Questions

• Great flexibility in assessing lower and higher-order thinking.
• Many kinds and types of subject matter and learning outcomes can be measured.
• Item analysis can provide diagnostic information.
• Credit can be given for partial correctness, if more than one choice may be selected.
• Can save space on the screen.
• Easy and quick to score.

Disadvantages of Multiple Drop-down Questions

• Difficult to write higher order questions (i.e., procedural, metacognitive).
• Cannot test ability to organize and present knowledge.
• Possible disadvantage - Since there may be more than one correct answer, students are less able to effectively use an elimination strategy.
• Students with accessibility needs may have difficulty using drop-downs.

Average Response Time

1 minute (high-level questions may take more time).